Antique Australian 9ct Gold Seed Pearl Cross Circa 1905
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Charming and poignant piece of early Australian jewellery by Duggin, Shappere and Co (1896-1932).
Modelled as a crucifix in 9ct rose gold which has been ‘bloomed’ to give a rich matte yellow gold finish.
History of Blooming
Blooming, a popular finishing technique for karat gold jewellery from 1870 to 1890, was first documented in 1853. The means for creating a bloom finish involved dipping a gold item into a boiling mixture of hydrochloric acid (muriatic acid), saltpeter (potassium nitrate), salt and water. This process burned off any alloys on the surface resulting in an alloy-free, thin layer of soft, pure gold on the item.
Hallmarked with Duggin, Shappere and Co.’s iconic symbol of a vertical ‘Anchor’, 9 and the Manufacturing Jewellers Association of Victorias’ guarantee mark of a ‘Wheatsheaf’.
This finely made early piece of Australiana by one of our renowned early jewellery firms is a little heirloom in the making.
STONES
Seed Pearl
MEASUREMENTS
3.5cm x 2.6cm. With out bale
WEIGHT
2.45 Grams
MARKS
‘Anchor’ / 9 / ‘Wheatsheaf’ M.J.A guarantee mark
CONDITION
Very very good antique condition. Blooming is lovely and matte. Seed pearls are original and no re-gluing. No dents nor dings.
Please note boxes are for display only unless otherwise stated
